John Phillips - The Essential Welsh Springer Spaniel
The British books about Welsh Springer Spaniels have publication dates ranging from 1985 to 2007. The oldest of these is "The Essential Welsh Springer Spaniel" by John Phillips. First published in 1985, it was revised in 1990 and provides information and photos of historic Welshies, and lists of British Champions from the late 1920's to the late 1980's. There is also important historical information about the breed's development in the UK. Mr. Phillips is both a WSS breeder (Topmast), and a WSS judge. In addition, he has been an active proponent of Welshies in field activities for many years. He judged Welsh Springer Spaniels at the WSSCA Specialty held in Madison, Wisconsin in 1991. The book is out of print but is available at Amazon.com with ISBN 0951023713.
WSSC Book of Champions
The second British book"The Welsh Springer Spaniel Club Book of Champions;1902--1992" is a more difficult book to locate due to its limited printing run of only 500 copies. Published by the WSSC in the UK, it consists of photos and pedigrees of champion WSS dogs from the early part of the 20th century up to the time of printing. It was compiled by Graham Tain of Taimere Welsh Springers, and includes a History of the Breed written by Anne Walton, judge and breeder of Hillpark Welsh Springers. Mrs. Walton judged in America at the WSSCA Specialty held in Perry, Georgia in 1994 and brought copies of the book for members to acquire. The book is still listed as available on the WSSC website for £5.00, so you may be able to nab a copy of it. Otherwise, I did see it available at www.abebooks.com for over $50.
WSSC of South Wales - Starters In The Valleys
The third book is even more rare-"Starters in the Valleys" is a paperback book published in 1994 by the WSSC of South Wales. It concentrates on the well-known kennels of South Wales, including profiles of the Cwrt Afon, Dalati, Pencelli, Tregwillym, and Wainfelin dogs and their breeders. It also offers historical information and photos about the breed in Wales, England, and abroad. This book may only be available from members of the WSSC of South Wales.
Anne Walton - Welsh Springer Spaniel
Anne Walton, a well known UK breeder and judge authored the book "Welsh Springer Spaniel" as part of the World of Dogs series in 1999. Published by Kingdom Books, this is also a TFH Inc. publication. This hardcover book is an detailed compilation of everything a new puppy owner could need to know about the history, care and training of Welshies for bench or field. There are beautiful photos in black and white and color, and a chapter about dogs and breeders around the world, and extensive appendices for those people craving details about all things Welsh Springer Spaniel. Again, this book is out of print but copies are available on Amazon.com with the ISBN 1852791128.
Haja Van Wessem - Welsh Springer Spaniel
The most recent addition to the Welsh Springer Spaniel library is a book written in English by Dutch writer Haja Van Wessem titled "Welsh Springer Spaniel". This book is part of the Kennel Club Book Series, and was published in 2007. The author worked with photographer Isabel Francais, and some of the photographs in the book are of Rysan dogs-notably the cover photo is a picture of Kayo with a puppy (not his!). The book is not out of print, but is available on Amazon.com with the ISBN 1593782691.